Project of the Month: March 2024

March 18, 2024 Inspiration, Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Living, Patio Design, Project of the Month

Eye on the Design: A Detailed Look at our March Project of the Month

At TCP Custom Outdoor Living, we work with all kinds of homeowners. Some have no idea what they want, and we help them figure it out. Others know exactly what they want, and we help bring it to life. We are looking back at a great project we completed in 2017. It is truly a classic and certainly withstands the test of time.

Here are just a few of the special touches that made this project feel like a natural extension of the home. 

Before

The Finishes 

  • The key to the project, and something that adds so much polish to the final result, was the finishes, including the gently curved corbels and rack bracing to match the beams and columns. It’s all finished in cedar. 

A Friendly Sense of Enclosure

  • A stone seat wall with cast stone caps and low-voltage lighting surrounds the entire project.

That Stunning Ceiling 

  • We used tongue and groove pine that has been white-washed to contrast with the darker beams.

The Focal Point Fireplace 

The wood-burning fireplace was designed with a unique taper look that complements the pitch of the roof perfectly. Vaulting the ceiling allowed us to really make that fireplace soar. 

The Gabled Side Entrance 

We always put a lot of care and thought into creating patios with multiple entrances. This one is equally impressive if you step out the back door or come in from the yard. 

The Outdoor Kitchen with Room to Cook

We wrapped the counter around the space to make for a larger food prep and service area that ensures the kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful. 

The Floor that Brings It All Together

This stone tile was selected to really complement the stone on the fireplace, kitchen, knee wall, and even the ceiling. It’s durable and easy to clean as well. 

Hill Country Charm with Scandinavian Accents

TCP Outdoor Living’s innovative design transformed this unused yard into a contemporary, highly functional entertainment space.

Get started on your backyard transformation by clicking here to book your free consultation today.

Project of the Month: February 2024

February 12, 2024 Inspiration, Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Living, Patio Design, Project of the Month

Transforming a Small Yard into a Luxurious Outdoor Oasis

A family in Houston had a modest backyard with an existing pool but no shade or designated outdoor living area. They wanted to create a contemporary outdoor oasis that felt like an extension of their home. TCP Outdoor Living took on the challenge of designing a functional and stylish outdoor living space within the constraints of their small urban lot.

Before

Creating an Outdoor Living Room

Before:

  • The clients desired a covered outdoor living room large enough for entertaining and everyday relaxation.
  • TCP built a 450-square-foot outdoor living room with vaulted ceilings that connect the home to the garage.
  • The tongue and groove ceiling is pre-stained Smokey Bourbon by Woodtone, adding warmth and personality.
  • The concrete flooring has a spray deck coating for a clean, contemporary look.

Building the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen

  • A 20-foot outdoor kitchen provides ample prepping and cooking space.
  • TCP designed and installed a privacy wall with Choctaw Tan stone to replace the fence.
  • The countertops are Tan Brown granite from a local supplier.
  • The kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances like a grill, beverage center, vent hood, doors, and more.

Adding Shade Elements

  • Bromic heaters and ceiling fans keep the space comfortable year-round.
  • A pergola with a privacy wall was built over the hot tub, matching the kitchen wall.
  • TCP added an overhead pergola cover system.
  • Another pergola and cover at the end of the pool create space for a daybed.

The clients now have the outdoor oasis they dreamed of, perfectly customized within their compact backyard.

TCP Outdoor Living’s innovative design transformed this unused yard into a contemporary, highly functional entertainment space.

Get started on your backyard transformation by clicking here to book your free consultation today.

TCP Houston’s 2024 Home Show Schedule

January 16, 2024 Events, Inspiration, Outdoor Living, Patio Design, Promotion

We’re excited to be part of three spectacular home shows. Join us to discuss your dream patio projects, get expert advice, and be part of our exclusive giveaways.

Here’s where you can find us:

1. Texas Home Show

2. Brazos Home & Garden Show

3. Katy ISD Home & Garden Show

Stay Updated & Win! Don’t forget to stay tuned for our exclusive ticket giveaway for the March home show! Visit TCPOutdoor.com regularly for the latest updates and your chance to win.

Sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates on our shows, including pre and post

So Fresh and So Clean: Maintaining Your Outdoor Kitchen

December 15, 2023 Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Living, Outdoor Safety

An outdoor kitchen is one of the most luxurious additions to your outdoor space. But with the food, drinks, and constant exposure to the elements, cleaning and maintaining it in top condition becomes challenging. Let’s explore some tips on how to keep your outdoor kitchen sparkling clean:

Before cleaning, invest in the right tools. A good-quality broom, mop, or scrub brush can make all the difference in removing grime and stains. When cleaning wooden surfaces, opt for eco-friendly cleaning solutions.

Cleaning and maintaining your outdoor kitchen is like cleaning your indoor kitchen. After each use, you should wipe down counters, clean up spills and messes, and empty the grease trap in your grill. A messy outdoor kitchen may attract urban wildlife like possums, raccoons, and rodents.

Stainless steel and cast iron grills require special attention to avoid rusting. Use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth to clean the grates after every use. Apply a light coating of vegetable oil to prevent rust buildup. Use a wire brush, sandpaper, or a commercial rust remover for larger rust spots.

Outdoor kitchen countertops are subject to frequent use, spills, and scratches. Clean them regularly with soap and water and dry them to avoid water spots. Use cutting boards to avoid direct cutting on the countertop, and wipe them down frequently.

Last, protection is key to keeping your outdoor kitchen in excellent condition. Invest in a cover to protect it from rain, snow, and UV rays, and store utensils and equipment in a dry, safe place. Empty and clean the grill after every use, and avoid using abrasive tools that could scratch the surfaces.

A properly cleaned and maintained outdoor kitchen looks great and ensures longevity, safety, and functionality. Following these expert tips, you can keep your outdoor kitchen pristine and ready to impress your guests 

Contact us today to learn more about starting your patio process.

When Will My Patio Be Completed? The TCP Process Timeline

December 15, 2023 Inspiration, Outdoor Living, Patio Design

Planning ahead is essential if you’re considering upgrading your patio or creating a whole new space. That’s where having a timeline can be incredibly helpful. Here’s when you can expect your project to be completed:

To complete your project by January-February, call us in August.
The winter months can be a great time to build, especially if you love to cozy up outdoors in the cooler weather.

If you want your project completed by March-April, call us in October.
Spring is a popular time for building outdoor living spaces, and getting your project done before the warm weather hits will be worth it when you can relax outside.

To have your project completed by May-June, call us in December.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor living space, whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply lounging with a book.

For a project ready for July-August, call us in February.
Get ready for grilling season and beat the heat under your new patio.

If you want your project completed by September-October, call us in April.
The fall months can be a great time to build, especially if you want to spend more time outside before winter.

If you want your project completed by November-December, call us in June.
While it might seem early to start planning your outdoor living space in the summer, remember that construction projects can take time. What could be more magical than spending the holidays outside with the people you love?

Whether you’re starting now or several months down the road, having a timeline can help you stay on track and ensure that your project is completed when you want it to be.

At TCP, we’re here to help guide you through the process and make your dreams of a new patio a reality.

Trust the Process: Why Vision Boards Are Important to Your Patio’s Design

December 11, 2023 Inspiration, Interview, Outdoor Living, Patio Design
Whether you prefer to browse online, flip through magazines, or gather samples and swatches, creating a vision board can be a powerful tool to turn your vision into a reality. Let’s explore the best ways to find inspiration for your patio, explain how to make a vision board, and discuss the importance of having a clear vision for your patio design:

Patio designing can be a daunting task for many. Not only does it require a lot of imagination and creativity, but it also needs detailed planning and execution. A project developer can help you with the entire process, from drafting the initial concept to the final build. However, to create a dream patio, our designer must learn about you, your preferences, and your lifestyle. Let’s discuss six questions our project developers might ask you to create a remarkable outdoor living space.

1. Start with Pinterest or Houzz

Two popular websites for home design and decor, Pinterest, and Houzz, can be excellent sources of inspiration for your patio project. You can search for different styles, materials, color palettes, and layouts that match your taste and lifestyle. You can also save your favorite photos and create boards to compile ideas. For starters, check out our Houzz for plenty of tips and inspiration.

2. Go through magazines and cut out pics.

If you prefer the old-school approach, flip through home decor and gardening magazines like Better Homes and Gardens, Southern Living, and Architectural Digest for patio inspiration. Cut out photos of patios that speak to you or evoke your desired mood or atmosphere. Set aside the images that you like and discard the rest. You can also use paint chips, fabric swatches, and other tactile samples to help build your vision board.

3.  Attend home and garden shows.

Home shows, garden tours, and open houses can provide many patio ideas. Seeing patios in person can give you a better sense of size, scale, and perspective. You can also ask questions, talk to designers and builders, and get ideas for incorporating specific features, such as built-in grills, pergolas, firepits, or water features.

4. Make a vision board

Getting his vision across. Shot of two designers working at a chalkboard

With all the inspiration you’ve collected, now it’s time to refine and organize your ideas into a cohesive vision board. Choose a poster board or a blank wall and place your images, paint chips, fabric swatches, and other samples in a way that makes sense. Some people organize their boards by color or theme, while others focus on how certain elements work together. It is essential to keep your vision board visual, re-examine it at different points during your planning process, and adjust it to fit your evolving plans.

5. Understand the importance of a vision

The next question our designer may ask is related to the materials you have in mind for the build. Whether you’re planning a wood, concrete, or stone patio, we want to understand what finishes you want to use to create your desired look. Different materials have pros and cons, and our project developers will help you understand why certain materials would be more or less advisable for your specific needs and budget.

When designing or upgrading your patio, inspiration can come from many sources. Whether you prefer scouring Pinterest or Houzz, flipping through magazines, or attending home and garden shows, it’s essential to translate your vision into a tangible form. A vision board can help refine your ideas and keep you on track when building your dream outdoor space.

Remember that a vision can evolve and change during the planning process, so keep an open mind and have fun with it.

Expectations, Budget, Timeline, and More Questions to Ask Before Designing Your Space

November 21, 2023 Outdoor Living, Patio Design

Patio designing can be a daunting task for many. Not only does it require a lot of imagination and creativity, but it also needs detailed planning and execution. A project developer can help you with the entire process, from drafting the initial concept to the final build. However, to create a dream patio, our designer must learn about you, your preferences, and your lifestyle. Let’s discuss six questions our project developers might ask you to create a remarkable outdoor living space.

1. What Are Your Expectations? 

The first question that our project developer might ask you is: What are your expectations? Every family has different needs and ambitions when it comes to patios. Some want a space to entertain guests, while others prefer a peaceful oasis to enjoy with family. We’ll want to know your design style, intended use, and the features you require. A clear idea of what you want will act as a springboard for the designer to create an outdoor space that reflects your aims.

2. What is Your Budget?

The second and most critical question our designer will ask is how much you will spend on the outdoor space. Our designer must consider your budget when determining what to include in the patio design. Being honest and transparent about your budget is the key to an outdoor space that satisfies your needs without breaking the bank.

3.  How will you make a decision? 

Every homeowner is different, but here are some questions that must be answered when meeting with a TCP Project Developer. Who is involved? What is your process? How will a decision be made? When will the decision occur? How will it be made?

4. What is Your Timeline? 

It’s essential to communicate with our project developer about the deadline that you have in mind for the project. Whether you want the new or remodeled patio done before summer or fall, your builder will want clarity about the timeline to ensure your project completion aligns with your deadlines. A designer must also plan the work to ensure a smooth and efficient build process.

5. What Finishes  Do You Prefer?

The next question our designer may ask is related to the materials you have in mind for the build. Whether you’re planning a wood, concrete, or stone patio, we want to understand what finishes you want to use to create your desired look. Different materials have pros and cons, and our project developers will help you understand why certain materials would be more or less advisable for your specific needs and budget.

6. Any Built-Ins or Additional Features?

We may ask if you plan to add any built-in features such as fire pits, water features, outdoor kitchens, retractable screens, or other items. These features can enhance your outdoor space and make it more comfortable and functional. The designer will help you decide what features would work best or if you should add additional functionality to your space.

Remember that being open and honest with our designer about your expectations, budget, timeline, and preferences is crucial. With this information, we’ll be able to create an amazing space to enjoy for years to come.

Traditional Touches, Industrial Chic, and FORTY-EIGHT More Patio Design Ideas

November 21, 2023 Outdoor Living, Patio Design

Patios are the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation, dining, and entertainment. With so many factors to consider in building your perfect patio, it’s hard to know where to start. If you’re looking for thought starters, ideas, and inspiration to build a new patio or upgrade your existing one, you’re in the right place. Let’s go over 50 patio design ideas to inspire your patio journey:

1. Mix-and-Match Seating: Playing with different seating options, like chairs, lounge chairs, and loveseats, can create an eclectic and stylish feel to your patio.

2. Outdoor Fire Pit: A fire pit is an excellent addition to any patio, creating a focal point and a cozy ambiance. 

3. String Lights: Adding string lights creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your patio a perfect spot for summer nights.

4. Vertical Garden: If you’re tight on space, adding a vertical garden can bring the greenery without taking up floor space.

5. Outdoor Movie Night: Install an outdoor movie screen or simply hang a white sheet and enjoy a movie under the stars.

6. Rustic Touches: Incorporating rustic elements like wooden benches, potted plants, and lanterns can add a touch of charm and coziness to your patio.

7. Small-Space Solutions: Create a quaint and cozy patio that feels like an extension of your living room by adding trim and comfortable seating options like poufs, stools, and cushions.

8. Traditional Touches: Create a classic and timeless outdoor space with traditional design elements such as wrought-iron furniture and terracotta planters.

9. Mediterranean Flair: Create a Mediterranean vibe with colorful tiles, lanterns, and clay pottery to add charm and character to your patio.

10. Dining Outdoors: Incorporate an outdoor dining space into your patio, complete with a table, chairs, and a grill or outdoor kitchen.

11. Living Wall: Create a vertical garden stretching from floor to ceiling with a living wall, adding greenery and interest to your patio.

12. Cozy Reading Nook: Create a cozy nook for reading with a comfortable chair or hammock, a small side table, and plenty of cushions.

13. Clean and Minimal: Use neutral colors and modern furniture to keep your patio simple and minimal.

14. Modern Geometric Designs: Incorporating bold geometric designs on cushions, furniture, and flooring adds a modern touch to any patio.

15. Bohemian Chic: Bring a vibrant, boho feel to your patio with colorful fabrics, dream catchers, and textured planters.

16. Outdoor Kitchen: Create a complete outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, and countertop to make cooking and entertaining easier.

17. Pergola: Adding a pergola to your patio adds functionality, providing shade and style with a focal point and design feature.

18. Colorful Accents: Add pops of color with vibrant accent pieces like outdoor rugs, cushions, and throw blankets.

19. English Garden: Create an English garden-inspired patio with classic elements such as a white picket fence, wrought-iron chairs, and colorful blooms.

20. Outdoor Bar: Building an outdoor bar with a built-in sink, shelves, and dressers means being the host with the most.

21. Poolside Paradise: Create an oasis with an in-ground pool, seating, and lush greenery, adding a paradise to your backyard.

22. Repurpose Old Furniture: Utilize old furniture you own by repainting or reupholstering it to fit your patio aesthetic.

23. Mix of Textures: Add depth to your patio by mixing textures like wicker, wood, and metal furniture.

24. Pop of Patterns: Add interest to your patio with bold prints, patterns, and fabrics that add color and personality.

25. Cost-Saving Ideas: Keep your patio budget-friendly by repurposing items such as bed headboards, old doors, or used rugs to create unique patio designs.

26. Beachy Vibes: Bring coastal charm to your patio with white and turquoise colors paired with weathered wood furniture.

27. Pops of Potted Plants: Add character to your patio with pots and planters of different colors, shapes, and sizes.

28. Wrought Iron Details: Incorporate wrought iron details to add a classic, traditional touch to your patio.

29. Outdoor Lounge: Furnish your patio with comfortable outdoor lounge chairs to create an elegant, relaxing hangout spot.

30. Rustic Vibes: Bring a welcoming, rustic feel to your patio with burlap textiles, metal furniture, and natural wood.

31. Industrial Chic: Bring an edgy vibe to your patio with industrial-inspired materials such as metal and wood.

32. Oversized Umbrella: Adding a giant umbrella creates a shady spot for your patio, perfect for spending lazy afternoons outside.

33. Serene Water Element: Incorporate the calming element of water to create a serene, tranquil atmosphere in your patio space.

34. Cozy Courtyard: Create a cozy courtyard space, complete with small bistro tables, greenery, and outdoor string lighting.

35. Tranquil Zen Space: Add a zen feel to your patio by incorporating simple, clean lines and natural elements like rocks and bamboo fencing.

36. Covered Patio: Constructing a covered patio with a fan or lighting fixtures is another way to create a shaded space.

37. Built-In Benches: Adding built-in benches can provide additional seating and a cozy touch to your patio.

38. Natural Rock Accents: Incorporate natural rock accents such as rock garden beds, stepping stones, and low walls to create a natural, earthy feel.

39. Retro Style: Add a retro flair to your patio with bright pops of color, vintage furniture, and accessories.

40. Four-Season Patio: Create a four-season patio with air conditioning, heating, and a retractable roof system for year-round use.

41. Geometric Patterns: Play with different geometric patterns on cushions, rugs, and furniture to create a modern, sleek patio design.

42. DIY Garden Boxes: Create DIY garden boxes to plant herbs and vegetables, adding practicality and style to your patio area.

43. Tropical Escape: Bring a tropical feel to your patio with warm colors, giant palms, and slick wicker furniture.

44. Inexpensive Seating: Create an affordable outdoor seating area by repurposing old chairs or using inexpensive benches.

45. Moroccan Theme: Incorporate Moroccan-inspired accent pieces such as vibrant textiles, patterned patio tiles, and ceramic planters.

46. Cozy Fireplace: Install a cozy fireplace on your patio to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

47. Build your own Sectional: Save money and add a personal touch by building your outdoor sectional using your existing furniture or new materials.

48. Shabby Chic Charm: Embrace chic charm on your patio, complete with bright florals, antique decor, and vintage furniture pieces.

49. Modern Rustic: Combine modern and rustic elements by adding sleek metal furniture to a rustic wooden deck or patio area.

50. Natural Light: Make the most of natural light in your patio space by adding large windows or doors to enjoy the sunlight throughout the day.

Conclusion:

No matter your style or budget, you can upgrade your patio into the outdoor space of your dreams with these 50 patio design ideas. The real magic of a custom TCP space comes with the homeowner’s decor and furnishings, creating an inviting and functional outdoor space. Adding many of these DIY projects will give you the outdoor living you’re looking for.

 So, start planning and get ready to enjoy more quality time with your loved ones in your newly upgraded patio space!

Calmness, Creativity, Focus, and How Patio Time Can Improve Mental Health

November 22, 2023 Outdoor Living

Spending time in a scenic, relaxing outdoor space like a nicely designed patio can provide immense relaxation benefits that can reduce stress, ease anxiety, promote mindfulness, improve mood, and help you focus better. Let’s explore some of the benefits of relaxing on your patio and share some tips on designing or upgrading your outdoor space for maximum relaxation and wellness.

1. Natural, Calming Environment

If you’re looking to de-stress and relax, there’s nothing better than enjoying the greenery in your backyard. A well-designed patio can offer beautiful views of trees, grass, flowers, and blue skies, which can improve your mood. It’s also a great way to detach from the digital world and its distractions to help reconnect with nature. According to Harvard Medical School, exposure to sun and nature can also boost serotonin levels in your brain, leading to decreased stress levels.

2. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

There are plenty of ways your patio can help you unwind from a busy day. Whether it’s soft lighting, comfortable seating, fire features, or soothing music, you can design your patio as a sanctuary to help you de-stress and unwind after a long day at work.

3. Boosting Creativity and Focus

Creating a patio as a functional and inspiring outdoor workspace can stimulate your creativity and provide you with a refreshing change of scenery. Keep your patio well-lit (in case of evening work or study) and add comfortable seating to work in for long periods.

4. Better Sleep Quality

Relaxing on your patio can be a perfect way to transition from a hectic workday to a more restful night’s sleep. Natural surroundings, fresh air, and features like hammocks or couches make for a more comfortable, peaceful sleep that promotes a sense of well-being.

With the right design, your patio can be the perfect retreat, providing an escape from the stress and anxiety that often surround us.

Eating, Entertaining, Working, and More Reasons to Build A Covered Patio

December 7, 2023 Outdoor Living

A covered patio is a great way to upgrade your outdoor space. If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard, there are plenty of reasons why a covered patio is perfect for you, and no matter the design or style you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. Here are five reasons you need a covered patio:

You Can Dine Al Fresco Year Round

If you love eating outside, your covered patio must have an outdoor dining area. It offers plenty of space to entertain family and friends while enjoying a delicious meal. A sturdy table with comfortable chairs is all that’s needed. You can add lighting to create a fantastic atmosphere in your outdoor dining area. You can even set up a grill to add flair to your cooking.

You’ll Have A New Space to Cook and Grill

An outdoor kitchen is a great idea if you love cooking and entertaining. Imagine spending time with your family and friends, cooking, and enjoying meals outside. You can include countertops, a sink, and a refrigerator to create a fully functional kitchen. You can finish the space with outdoor barstools and a sound system to make it a place everyone will never want to leave.

You Can Extend Your Living Room

An extended living room with an outdoor sofa, rug, and side table can be a fantastic option if you love lounging outdoors. Add colorful cushions, large carpets, and potted plants to make the space more inviting.

You’ll Have Much More Space to Entertain

This option is perfect for people who love to entertain guests. Install a home theater system and a large screen for movie nights under the stars or a game night with friends. This outdoor entertainment space is perfect for families with children, too. Check out our blog to find the perfect outdoor TV for your covered patio.

You Can Work From Home In Style

Nowadays, working from home is becoming more and more common. Turn your covered patio into a home office and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views while you work. The sound of chirping birds, the sight of the beautiful garden outside, and the smell of the fresh air will make for a comfortable and productive remote work experience.

TCP Custom Outdoor Living is here to help you bring your ideas to life. Call or contact us here, and we’ll be ready to help through every step of the way.

Have a project in mind? We work throughout the Houston and Dallas - Fort Worth areas.

Our Customers Love Us

I have a lot of experience with construction and renovations, so some contractors find me annoying at best. My outdoor living project was larger than I was able to take on as it entailed adding an outdoor living area, kitchen, dining room, and bathroom with a fireplace and fire pit. It’s built onto an existing structure with a tile roof in a seamless manner. The completed project is amazing, and was featured in the Houzz project of the month for December 2013. It was a very large project so it took a long time to complete, however the process was absolutely painless. In my previous experiences, I have always had issues with miscommunications and added costs, among other things. My experience with Texas Custom Patios included NONE of these issues. The finished project far exceeded my expectations. The workmanship was superior, and the quality of the products is top of the line. I truly highly recommend them.

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